Five Questions for Oct. 2, 2012: Eric Williams

Eric Williams is a Navy ensign. He arrived in Saratoga Springs on Friday and starts six months of training in the nuclear program in West Milton.

Q Where are you from?

A I'm from Chapel Hill, N.C., although I was born in New Hampshire. I graduated from Norwich University in Vermont in 2011. It's a well-known military school. I went there because that's where my father, Robert, went. He's a Vietnam veteran and flew a Cobra helicopter. He was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

Advertisement

Q How did you get to where you are now?

A After graduation from college last year, I did some work at a recruiting station. Then you have to go through training in Charleston, S.C., before coming here. I also took a course in Groton, Conn.

Q What is your career goal?

A Eventually, I'd like to command a submarine. They're the most technologically advanced war machine in the world. Plus, you're working with the best people in the Navy. I should be assigned to a boat shortly after I complete my training here. At 23, I could help drive a $2 billion piece of equipment.

A Coming from North Carolina, I'm a big fan of Duke basketball. The New York Yankees are my favorite baseball team. I think they'll hold on and make the playoffs. They've got an easy schedule the rest of the way. During my trip to Connecticut, I stopped and saw the Yankees play in New York, so I got to see the new stadium. That was nice.